Russia halts diesel exports as Ukraine strikes bite Russia has imposed an immediate ban on diesel exports in a bid to stabilise domestic fuel supplies after sustained Ukrainian drone strikes disrupted oil refineries and triggered shortages across the country. The emergency move underscores the growing economic impact of Kyiv's campaign against Russia's energy infrastructure. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak acknowledged the strain on the fuel market, telling a government meeting chaired by President Vladimir Putin that long queues at filling stations had become a source of public concern. Fuel crisis forces Kremlin into action The export ban came into force on Wednesday and will remain in place until July 31. Officials say the measure is intended to redirect diesel supplies to the domestic market, while Russia is also expected to begin importing fuel during July. Existing government supply agreements, including exports to Mongolia, will be exempt. The move follows reports that Russia had already started importing gasoline by sea from India as pressure on domestic supplies intensified. Ukraine's drone campaign hits home Kyiv says its strikes on Russian oil refineries and fuel facilities are designed to weaken Moscow's ability to sustain the war and increase pressure for negotiations. The attacks have coincided with mounting disruption inside Russia. Drivers in multiple regions have reportedly faced hours-long queues for fuel, while diesel and gasoline shortages have driven up prices and exposed vulnerabilities in the country's energy network. Markets react as exports collapse The announcement sent benchmark European diesel refining margins to a record $60.17 per barrel, reflecting fears of tighter global supplies. Russian seaborne diesel and gasoil exports had already fallen sharply before the ban. Shipments dropped 39 per cent in June compared with the previous month and were down 46 per cent from the same period last year, according to shipping data. Early July figures point to a further decline. Economic pressure widens beyond the battlefield Speaking at the meeting, Putin accused Ukraine of trying to damage Russia's economy and spread public anxiety, while insisting the country's energy system remained resilient. But the latest restrictions highlight the mounting economic costs of the war. With exports shrinking and domestic demand taking priority, Moscow is being forced to balance military resilience with growing pressure on everyday fuel supplies and international energy markets. Russia bans diesel exports to ensure domestic supply after targeted Ukrainian drone strikes
